Buses are by far the most widely used form of public transport, with twice as many journeys as the next most popular mode. Concessionary travel in Mid Sussex, available to those above the state pension age and with eligible disabilities, is a hugely important part of our local bus services.
As such, I am pleased the Government recognises the importance of strong local bus networks in enabling people to access work, education, and vital local services such as healthcare, which is why over the last 3 years it has invested over £3.5bn in supporting and improving bus services in England outside of London (bus services are devolved in London to the Mayor of London).
We know that, while there has been a significant return of fare-paying passengers to buses in England, fewer people with concessionary passes have returned to buses- that is why I am supporting the Take the Bus campaign!
This campaign is targeting people aged 66 and above, and disabled people who are eligible for a concessionary pass, to encourage them to use the free bus travel available.
The campaign reminds passholders of the benefits of using bus travel, including staying active, visiting new places, taking up hobbies and seeing friends and family – while saving money on travel.
Along with the government’s £2 bus fare cap scheme, the campaign aims to get more people using the bus to help reduce congestion and emissions while supporting the bus industry and helping grow the economy.
Thanks to the free bus fare scheme, concessionary pass holders around the country can access great days out for free. People can leave the car at home and grab one of Stagecoach’s frequent ‘triangle’ routes to Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay, or hop on the Coastliner 840 from Leeds to Whitby, voted England’s most scenic bus route for its incredible views across the North York Moors National Park.
Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:
We want those eligible to embrace all the benefits their concessionary pass can bring, with free bus travel allowing them to enjoy great trips out – all they need to do is ‘take the bus’.
Around £1 billion a year of central and local government funding goes towards concessionary passes to help older and disabled people get out and about while saving them money and helping grow the economy.
You can read more about the campaign here.